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UNITED STATES OF A?tIEIlI€xi, 





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The Ackley Pilgrims 



» ^ > ^ » 



Nine Weeks Trip Through Europe, 
Summer of '92. 



BY 



MRS. GEORGE A. SPINK, 



A PILGRIM. 



J\]] 13 1894 



AUBURN, R. I. 



PROVIDENCE. R. I. 
Press of The J, C. Hall Company. 



PS 2 ^^t 



Copyrighted, 1894. 



This little book is respectfully dedicated to 

Rev. Wm. N. Ackley, 

in appreciation of his loving kindness as leader of 

the 
''Ackley Pilgrims." 

By the Author. 



wmrm 



This work has not been written friends 

For profit, or for fame, 
Or to secure publicity. 

Or make myself a name. 

I simply wrote because I loved 
The countries, where we'd been. 

And 'twas a pleasure to recall 
The beauties we had seen. 

At the request of many friends 

I to the public give 
This simple little truthful work, 

And trust 'twill pleasure give, — 

To all, who read the simple tale 
Of the litde -Ackley Band" 

Who wandered far from home, 
"Innocents" in foreign land. 



I trust the public will be kind 

To one who offers here 
Her travels in poetic form 

With hesitation, fear, — 

And over-look the many faults 

In this her first attempt. 
To please has been her only wish, 

From all else she's exempt. 

Signed, 

Very Respectfully, 

Mrs. George A. Spink. 




THE mim 




WAS the steamship "City of Chester," 
That sailed the summer sea, 
And carried a goodly number 

Of innocents who would flee 
From dull care or sordid pleasure, 

Leave friends and home behind, 
Visit many foreign countries. 

Study and improve the mind. 



Our kind leader. Reverend Ackley, 

With his wife so sweet and mild. 
And professors without number, 

With one solitary child. 
Married ladies, youths and misses. 

Doctors, ministers and such. 
Assembled on that ship's deck 

To test old Neptune's touch. 



Very soon his powers were tested, 
As the tides did ebb and flow% 

And many a youth and maiden 
Were obliged to go below, 



Where the stewardess, good woman, 

Often lent a helping hand 
To assist them to their state-rooms, 

As they felt too weak to stand. 

After days of relaxation, 

Lying low and keeping quiet, 
They ascended to the deck again, 

Where they took a little diet. 
Of beef-tea, a ginger-snap or two, 

An orange or an ice, 
With sea-bread, hard as any stone, 

Or perhaps a little rice. 

In nine cases out of every ten 

They recovered very fast, 
And walked or ran around the deck 

Up to the very last, 
When the coast of Ireland came in view, 

After ten days out at sea, 
Ah! w^e felt like old Columbus, 

Though we laughed so merrily. 



imh 




^f AIR Oueenstown was the harbor 

Where we landed near the dawn, 
In a drizzHng rain we anchored 

On that well remembered morn ; 
Entered Custom House quite gaily 

Had our baggage overhauled; 
Climbed the rocks to gather flowers 

Over which the vines had crawled, 



Bought we shamrock by the handful, 

Took we carriages for Cork, 
Where we spent some hours in resting. 

Not caring for a walk 
In the rain which had continued 

All the blessed morning through, 
As if in green old Ireland 

It had nothing else to do. 



Hours later when the sky was clear, 

Took we carriages again 
To St. Fionn Bar's grand cathedral. 

Which must have racked the brain 



Of some of the old architects, 
Who planned that massive pile 

Of masonry and stone work, 
In that far-off ancient style. 

Through the country drove we after 

To Blarney Castle, b)' the way, 
Where we viewed with breath abated. 

That grand ruin in decay; 
Climbed the tower to its summit, 

Kissed the famous " Blarney Stone," 
Descended to its dungeons 

Of which little now is known. 

Next the regions of Killarney 

On our programme did appear. 
Took we train for Muckross Station, 

Landing there with little fear. 
Stopped at the '' Hotel Muckross," 

Near the Abbey of that name, 
A grand and stately ruin. 

Making Blarney rather tame. 

The jaunting cars were taken. 

As the sun sank down to rest, 
By numbers of our party. 

Their easy qualities to test ; 
But they styled them very funny 

Little wagons for a ride. 
Pronouncing them not quite the thing 

F'or all sitting on one side. 



lO 



The Sabbath morning- broke at last 

With many a golden beam, 
Making mountain-chain and lakelet 

Like a poem or a dream ; 
Gilding ruined Miickross Abbey 

With a glory half divine, 
Peeping through the broken casements 

Where the ixdes lightly twine. 

To church we wandered slowly. 

On the morning of that day, 
Drinking in the dewy perfume 

Of the flowers by the way; 
Breathing air so cool, refreshing, 

Health- s'ivinor to us all. 
Thinking, can this be old Ireland 

Over which hangs such a pall? 

After church a drive was taken 

Through the Muckross grand estate, 
Though we admired all its beauty, 

We pitied its sad fate. 
To think of those broad acres. 

Of fields so green and fair. 
Not paying for improvements 

Or keeping in repair. 

Killarney, dear Killarney! 

Our memory clings to thee. 
With your mountains rising grandly 

From the level of the sea. 



II 



Where among thy rocky caverns 

The eagle builds her nest, 
While around thy sturdy bases 

The red deer shows his breast. 

Next day from IVIuckross station 

Journeyed we for hours along, 
Through scenery romantic. 

And with many a joke and song, 
Fled the hours so swift and gaily, 

'Till at Dublin we arrived. 
Thanking goodness we had reached there, 

And that all of us survived. 




12 



/ML 




HAT can I say of thee ! of thy sea-bound shore 
V^^i^^^*4^-'Say thou art most lovely, just this and no more 
Or shall I repeat what others have said 
In regard to thy mines, and thy deep iron bed? 



No, I'll not mention these in this little tale, 

Or tell any horror to make the cheek pale ; 

But just give in outline what we saw as we flew. 

In the express that morning — then bid thee adieu. 

Most romantic the views as we sped past thy bowers, 
Of mountains and vales, of castles and towers. 
With ruins most frowningly perched on the hill 
By men of past ages, who built with much skill. 

Suspended thy bridges far over our way. 
Which shows the improvement of the present day; 
With tunnels cut through the hillside so solid, 
With comfortable homesteads but never one squalid. 



13 



Thy fields are well tended, thy flocks and thy fold 

Are watched o'er by Shepherds, as they watched them of old. 

Thy land seemed productive of comfort and gain, 

Well cared for and governed in the present reign. 

O could we have lingered on thy sea-girted shore, 
Gone bathing and fishing and found out the store 
Of knowledge, so precious, to fill up the mind. 
And give pleasing thoughts as we left thee behind. 

But our stay was too short to find out the story 

Of historic honors — of battles and glory. 

So with hearts full of pleasure at viewing thy beauties. 

We flew on to England, to our increase of duties. 




14 



ML/^ff^^ 



l^/^lrvT last we stood on Enplish soil, 
^^^^^^^ And many dici agree 

There was less of pleasure than of toil 
In crossing the Irish sea. 

But the ill effects were lessened, 
As we thought of all we'd seen, 

As on to Chester we hastened, 
For Wales had lain between. 

In Chester we spent one night, 
Stopping at "Queen Hotel," 

Where all seemed cheerful and bright, 
And where we soon felt well. 

Then, taking carriage or 'bus, 
We drove around the city, 

Viewing the quaint and curious. 
Seeing some things so pretty. 

Next morn we arose at six o'clock 
And proceeded on our way 

To Kenilworth Castle, a brick block. 
House of Leicester in decay. 

Viewed these ruins, walked around. 
Hearing legends of the past; 

Then hurried o'er the ground 
As the rain was falling fast. 

15 



Next to Warwick was the order, 
And to Warwick we did go, 

Where w^e walked along its border, 
Saw the Avon's gentle flow — 

Viewed the house and grounds outside, 
The old draw-bridge and the moat, 

In which all of us took pride. 
As down its history we wrote. 

The grounds were full of beauty 
With flower and shrub and tree, 

And we praised them as our duty. 
Yes, praised them heartily. 

We visited the "Warwick Vase" 

Of which so much is said ; 
Heard legends of a now past race, 

All of them being dead. 

We were shown the interior 

Of the castle, full of art, 
Long suites of rooms superior. 

In which Kings had taken part. 

Saw where Queen Anne had slept, 

And Oueen Victoria too. 
And perhaps w^here oft' they'd wept 

At things they had to do. 



i6 



Many, many rooms were looked through 

Where lovely things were seen ; 
Inlaid tables, rich in gold and blue. 

Walls hung with golden sheen. 

Then to Stratford drove we slowly 

Through the rain in waterproof; 
Bearing the discomforts lowly, 

But all wishing for a roof. 

Stratford-on-Avon is the place 

Where Wm. Shakespeare was born ; 

We saw the tombs of all the race 
Of Shakespeares, on that morn. 

Went through the church, and all around 

The grounds surrounding it; 
Where Shakespeare was so often found, 

Where often he would sit. 

We bought the famous Shakespeare spoon, 

And many a thing beside ; 
Took dinner in the afternoon, 

Then proceeded with our ride. 

The country through which we drove that day 

Was beautiful and fine; 
And as we drove along the way 

We wished for bright sunshine. 



17 



Arrived at Leamington town, 

We took train for Euston station, 

And very soon were all set down 
In London, Pride of the Nation. 

London by night was grand to see, 
With its row^s on rows of light; 

With crowds of folk so merrily 
Going ever to the right. 

Our first day in town was rather wet 
And spent in looking 'round; 

Talking and laughing with those w^e met 
Or riding under ground. 

To " Chrystal Palace" late that day 

We took the Rail- way train, 
And there we found a grand display 

Of things for making gain. 

And other things we found beside 

Under that roof of glass, 
Li which the English take much pride, 

In which they do surpass. 

Of statues old there was no lack; 

Of pictures too, so many ; 
And every kind of Bric-a-brac, 

Some selling for a penny. 



The grounds, how shall I picture them? 

With their Lakes and Islands too; 
\\ ith statues of women and men, 

Other attractions not a few\ 

We all attended a fine play 

Of Trapeze, and slight of hand, 

In which the actors gently sway 
As thev rise and fall or stand. 

And many other things we saw 

Before the close of day. 
Delightful, and without a Haw 

To take their charm awa\'. 

As eve approached the sky grew clear 

And brilliant the display 
Of fireworks, which did then appear 

In colors bright and gay. 

Thirty pieces or more, I'm sure, 

Were thrown up in the air; 
Causing the very most demure 

To exclaim, " How very rare ! " 

For never had we seen a sight 

So brilliant in its way; — 
Two figures dancing in the light 

To, "Ta-ra-ra-boom-de-aye." 



19 



And other pieces very grand, 

Arranged to music too ; 
With lovely music by the band, 

Home pieces old and new. 

But now I'll leave this charmino^ theme 
And return to I.ondon town, 

Where w^e did rest, too tired to dream, 
That night on beds of down. 



London next day, how charming! 

And through the fog we w^ent 
Shopping all the morning ; 

On bu)^ing we w^ere bent. 

The afternoon and evening too 

Was full of interest. 
For every hour we saw things new 

xAnd each we thought the best. 

Next morn was clear with bright sun-beam 
We drove, I scarce know where ; 

Seeing so much 'twas as a dream. 
Most beautiful and fair. 

Saw White Chapel and Aldersgate ; 

Also the Jewish Quarter; 
The church where Milton lies in state, 

And Prince of Wales' daughter. 



20 



Westminster Abbey was gone through, 

Where, in a niche in wall, 
Longfellow's bust shone bright and new, 

Seemingly to smile on all. 

This Abbey is a structure rare 

Of which so much is read, 
I need not an excuse declare 

For the little I have said. 

I never can describe or name 

All we saw as we drew nigh 
The towers and churches of past fame, 

Where forms of great men lie. 

We saw the Palace of the Queen, 

Albert's Memorial Tower; 
Also her jewels too were seen, 

We almost y^'// her power. 

Saw largest hotel in the world, 

The "Hotel Metropole," 
Saw armories with flaos unfurled, 

Armor and printed scroll. 

Crossed London Bridge and rode along 
The "Row" and "St. James' Park," 

Hearing much of right and wrong. 
And reached hotel at dark. 



21 



And so the five whole clays were spent 
Which were allowed us here, 

Doing as each one's mind was bent; 
In the evening did appear — 

Going to Theatre, Opera House, 
Or staying at home at will ; 

Some thought the da)^ about enough 
For any one to fill. 

And now the last hour did approach; 

We needs must haste away, 
To New Haven sped in railway-coach, 

Early upon that day. 

Farewell, farew^ell to England's shore, 
Thou lovely prosperous land ; 

Perhaps thou wilt be seen no more 
By the little " Ackley Band." 




22 



mmQ 




lEPPE ! yes at last we were on the French shore, 
^^ Feeling happy to think we should cross channels 
no more; 
But wander around through this beautiful land, 
See wonderful things and our knowledge expand. 

From steamboat to train we all soon had changed, 
With luggage secured and all things arranged, 
After buying some fruit and looking around 
At the Chalk-Cliffs, we rattled along o'er the ground. 

The ride from Dieppe to Paris was fine 

And, had we been favored with brighter sunshine, 

I don't know how beautiful France would have seemed, 

As we rode through the towns where busy life teemed. 

Of these towns which we passed, very much could be said, 
But no doubt of their history many have read, 
So passing them by, we sped on our way 
That we might be in Paris by close of the day. 



Rouen ! how that name will sad memories awake, 
When we think of Joan who was burnt at the stake! 
But as her sad story has often been told, 
To you a more pleasing one I will unfold. 

There were many fine towns scattered close by the Seine, 
And through which we traveled that clay in the train, 
The country was lovely, so brilliant and gay, 
With fields of bright colors all along the way. 

As evening approached we at Paris arrived. 

That wonderful Paris so often described ; 

And sure my poor pen can never write down 

All we saw as we drove through that beautiful town. 

Our kind guide, Mr. Vickers, a fine man by the way, 
Soon had us through Customs without much delay. 
Then seated in cabs we drove quickly along 
Through all that wonderful, gaily-dressed throng. 

Soon arrived at hotel the "Central" by name, 

A hotel quite new, not connected with fame 

We were shown our apartments, allowed a short rest. 

And then sought the dining hall, our dinner in quest. 

Next morn we arose much refreshed by our naps, 
Dressed ready for driving, and with no mishaps, 
Took cabs at the door and drove miles away 
Through Paris and environs, on that long summer's day. 



24 



What did we see as we drove slowly along? 
Saw gaih' dressed folk going- b)' with the throng; 
Saw the "Louvre" and the Church of the Madeleine, 
Largest in Paris, very handsome and plain. 

Where Marie x\ntoinette and man\' had died 
By terrible deaths, as is known far and wide ; 
Saw " Arc-de-Triomphe" whose height is immense. 
Built by Napoleon L a man of sound sense. 

His original plan was to have built four 
Of arches, in memory of victories a score, 
But never but one reached completion, I'm told, 
And this is Triomphe that stands out so bold. 

Saw "Spiral Tower;" "Trocadero," a very large dome. 
Not as large as St. Peters seen later in Rome ; 
Large concert-hall too, and much more 'twas grand 
We saw while in Paris, queen of the land. 

" fardin-des-Plants" with sweet flowers so gay. 
Where all through the summer the visitors stray; 
" Eiffel Tower," reaching upward its peak toward the sky, 
The one tower in Europe that was e'er built so high. 

Admiralty Square, Bridge Hill from old Bastile; 
The Gobelin Manufactory where we saw a great pile 
Of rugs, and lovely carpets of patterns intricate, 
Made by men whose daily earnings are very moderate. 



25 



The " Palals-de-Justice" on the Isle-de-la-cite, 

Was oft destroyed by fire which seemed such a pity; 

The tomb of Napoleon ; Corn Exchange and Market 

Square. 
Saw groups of scattered soldiers and heard music sweet 

and rare. 



Thus our first day in Paris sped swiftly along, 
In the evening went to Opera or Theatre with the throng, 
Some staying at the hotel where they rested for the night, 
So as to be up early looking cheerful, glad and bright. 



The second day in Paris we did just as we pleased. 
Going shopping at Au-bon-Mache, or if the fancy seized. 
Took drive around the city seeing many sights so new, 
Buying souvenirs and nick nacks in numbers not a few. 



Our third day was pleasant as to weather, which was fine, 
In open cabs we started, soon had crossed the Paris line. 
In the old town of Bois-de- Boulogne six miles awa)\ 
Seeing "Chateau of St. Cloud" and Grand Trianon by the 
way. 

The "Chateau of St. Cloud" has a history of its own. 
But as the space is limited it cannot here be shown ; 
So has the " Grand Trianon" built long years ago, 
By Louis XIV for Marie-de-Mainteno.' 



26 



Sweet gardens, and state carriages were looked at on that 

day ; 
Galleries of awful paintings of great battles in array ; 
Statue of Napoleon who was Emperor of France 
Heard histories and legends which their value did enhance. 



Our guides were kind, the weather fine, and everything so 

bright ; 
We enjoyed ourselves exceedingly 'till the closing in of 

nlcrht. 

<z> 

Then we went to our hotel for dinner and to rest, 
To prepare for the evening of social talk and jest. 



Next day was ours, to go or stay as inclination willed, 

As eve approached we all declared the day was more than 

filled, 
For shopping at Au-bon-Mache, and other places too. 
Was in Itself a hard day's work as one would wish to do. 



And so each day of all the six w^as filled up In its way. 
Some going to church on Sunday others to Louvre did 

stray. 
The "Louvre" has many rare old things and statues old 

and new 
" Venus-de-MIlo," an old Greek piece and a thousand 

others too. 



27 



Sunday, being our last day in Paris, we were told 

To pack our trunk and ready make for a journey long and 

cold. 
We rode by rail that night and day for more than sixteen 

hours, 
Through dark and damp (with lighted lamp) past many 

lovely bowers. 

This closed our stay in Paris, most lovely in the world, 
And many a sigh we breathed that night as along the way 

we whirled, 
But sighs nor tears will ne'er avail, Pll tell you the reason 

why — 
To everything thats' fair in life we have to say "good bye." 



:B^^^=^^^^^^ 




28 



i™lt. 




ITALY, thou fairest of lands, 
'■^% Land of poetry and song! 
How shall I ever describe thee, 
WIth-out dohig thee wrong- ? 
How shall I tell of the wonders 

Seen on thy beautiful shore ? 
How describe things of past ages, 
Things of historical lore ? 



Turin was the city selected 

For us to stop in one night. 
We landed mid dust and confusion, 

Our faces and clothes in a plight, 
For tunnels in numbers we'd passed through, 

As through the Alp region we came ; 
But the scenes had been grand and romantic; 

Paying for discomforts, I claim. 

In this city we saw much to please us, 

Took drive or a walk all around. 
Stopped at the hotel, "The Feder, " 

An old building which covers much ground. 



29 



In this house the floors are of marble, 

Inlaid in different design; 
And the stairs, self-supporting-. 

Give them an easy incline. 

From Turin to Genoa, we traveled 

In Railway-carriage, next da}'. 
Arriving in time for our dinner 

At " Hotel Central " by way. 
Then in open carriage, provided, 

And through the brightest sunshine, 
We drove through this ancient city. 

To see things substantial and tine. 

Saw Cathedral of Annunciation, 

St. John's tomb by the way, 
In which now his ashes are resting, 

'Till the Resurrection Day. 
Picture of Naggolo Paginni, 

The great violinist, was seen 
His violin resting in proof safe 

From fire, to protect it they mean. 

Church of "St. Lorenzo" was looked through; 

Built hundreds of )'ears ago; 
Then to " Campo Santo" hastened. 

Where w^e saw tombs in a row ; 
Most wonderful sculpturing also, 

Fashioned by a master hand. 
Of monuments, tablets, and scroll-work. 

Most beautiful work in the land. 



;o 



The day was most perfect with siinHght, 

The arch of the sky was so clear ; 
The view of the Alps from the city 

With soft Heecy clouds did appear. 
The air w^as delicious, refreshing, 

Tempered with breezes so mild 
Which blew from the great gulf of Genoa, 

And almost our senses beguiled. 

The city of (lenoa is noted 

For its historic events ; 
Here was the birth-place of Columbus, 

A man of learning and sense. 
It also has two fortifications, 

Which enclose it around; 
The only city in Europe, 

Where two rows of fortress' are found. 

At night we left Genoa for Pisa, 

By rail-w^ay passing along 
Through beautiful scenery and grove-shade, 

Amid much laughter and song. 
The twilight was long in its closing. 

Which gave a fine view, as we passed, 
Of the beautiful Medeterranean, 

A sea whose blue waters are vast. 

Through tunnels we passed in succession. 
Which gave us much fun in their way, 

As to close the window each minute, 
Was quite a hard task, I may say. 

31 



But the night was so cool and refreshuig, 

We did not such labor find ; 
Sweet fruits and candies passed often, 

While stories relieved the mind. 

Pisa was reached about midnight, 

Then we took cabs for the "Grand," 
'Tis an old palace converted 

Into hotel, understand. 
This house is built near to the "Arno," 

A river of some renown ; 
The city of ancient construction, 

Tw^o thousand year old town. 

Next morn we arose and proceeded 

In cabs, to the " Leaning Tower; " 
Then visited a grand old Cathedral, 

Where we spent more than an hour. 
St. John's Baptistery connected 

With this fine church was gone through. 
Where was a whispering gallery, 

W^hich gave many echoes, so true. 

In this grand old church there was service 

Going on as we entered that day ; 
The organ was giving sweet music. 

While people came in there to pray. 
We examined the paintings and altars 

The lamp made by Galileo, 
A wonderful ancient construction. 

Made many years ago. 

32 



Through graveyard we wandered that morning 

Seeing the old cypress tree, 
Walking on ground that was holy, 

F'rom Palestine over the sea ; 
Then to hotel all returning, 

Through the lovely sunshine. 
We, a small trade did engage in. 

Of pieces of marble, so fine. 

At night we left Pisa for Roma, 

Arriving near the midnight hour; 
Stopped at " Grand Hotel de Russie," 

Whose grounds were a beautiful bower — 
Of orange, and lemon, and plum tree, 

With statues and fountains behind, 
P^lowers and shrubs intermingled. 

Retreat sweet and cool, all combined. 

The paths of the gardens were graveled, 

With pebbles so fine and so white. 
They shone through the bright summer darkness, 

Like ribbons of silvery light. 
The statues gleamed white through the gloaming, 

The fountains made musical sound. 
Causing the senses to wonder. 

If that was a " Paradise found." 

There in that lovely old Roma, 

Of which so many have read. 
We rested for six days and over 

Seeing the living and dead ; 

33 



Walking where Christs own apostles, 
And even His saints did appear, 

Seeing the tombs of old martyrs, 

Who died for their Lord without fear. 

Our first day in Rome was most quiet, 

The weather so warm at mid-day, 
'Twas thought best not then to venture 

From the hotel far away ; 
Thus some were contented to wander, 

Or sit in the Edenly bower. 
Keep cool and eat fruit until evening. 

Then the young people danced for an hour 

Next morning was hot with bright sunshine, 

But that did not our courage daunt, 
No, we were all ready in carriage, 

Prepared for a long mornings jaunt. 
To " Pincian Hill" drove we slowly, 

(Not one of the seven in Rome,) 
And from its top viewed the city. 

For that we had many miles come. 

Next to " Palatine Hill" we proceeded. 

Which is one of the seven, 
There we walked among ruins. 

Hearing their history given ; 
Hearing the legend and story. 

Of a race which lived long ago, 
Who those old ruins did inhabit. 

As our kind guide tried to show. 

34 



To the Capitol next was the order. 

And we on to the Capitol came, 
Drinking" there from a fountain of water, 

Erected In somebody's name. 
In this house saw many old relics. 

Of statues no end In a line, 
" Mars" beintr the largest amonof them, 

An old Grecian piece, very fine. 

Saw skeletons there of great ladles, 

Of men who had died in their prime, 
Heard stories about the past ages, 

Almost from begining of time. 
Next drove through the streets of the city. 

Seeing each minute things new. 
So much we were almost distracted, 

With that ever varying view. 

At mid- day we rested at hotel, 

After wdiich we took carriage again. 
And drove to the ''Church of All Angels" 

There for some time to remain ; 
Michael Angelo was the founder. 

Of this church as Is well known 
To all readers of foreign travel. 

And to those to whom it Is shown. 

"St. Sebastian's," next on the programme. 
Another church of much fame, 

Where his Ef^gy, pierced by the arrows, 
Lies resting " In His Name." 

35 



Next " vSt. John's Church" was looked through 

And its chapels also, 
Where we heard beautiful music, 

From organ, so sweet and low. 

In "St. John's Church," twelve apostles 

All in white marble are cast. 
Standing in niches so gravely, 

Reminding us all of the past. 
Still another the "St. Mary," 

A magnificent church in its way. 
Where is kept part of the manger, 

In which the infant Christ lay. 

"St. Peter in Chains" was examined 

Where we saw the old chain, 
Said to be worn by St. Peter, 

While he in prison had lain ; 
Next "Santa Maria Maggiore," 

A very old church was gone through. 
There we saw frieze in mosaic. 

Of pictures most beautiful too. 

And one other place I must mention, 

That we saw upon that day, — 
A small building near to "St. John's" 

Where people gather to pray. 
They ascend on their knees many stairs. 

Made of marble so wdiite. 
Said to be from the house of Pilate, 

Walked over by Jesus of light. 

36 



Next, through the city drove slowly, 

Along past Palatine Mill, 
Going to Catacombs after, 

And such a large space as they fill; 
Under the earth is this grave-)'ard, 

Extending for many a mile 
Sebastian's tomb at its entrance. 

Then thousands of many a style. 

We passed the old " Colosseum," 

Now In a ruinous state, 
It covers a large space In Roma, 

Decay is Its ultimate fate. 
And many fine orchards we passed by 

Of peaches, figs, lemons and such, 
Arriving at hotel near evening. 

Then our dinner enjoyed very much. 

In the morn we took open carriage, 

And drove through modern Rome, 
Seeing many new and old objects. 

Some not unlike those at home. 
Next to the " Mamertlne Prison,'' 

Down In the vaults we did go, 
Where Peter and Paul were imprisoned 

In the harsh reign of Nero — 

Then the four chapels connected. 
With this old prison were seen, 

But into one only we ventured, 
As into so many we'd been: 

37 



Next to the "Forum" drove slowly, 
Through the heat of a summer's morn, 

Heard much about Julius Caesar, 
And events before we w^ere born. 

Then the "Vatican" claimed our attention, 

And there too a story we heard ; 
Next to "St. Peter's" we hastened, 

Heard its history word for word ; 
This church is a wonderful structure 

Of most ancient and delicate art, 
Many hundreds have spent there a life-time 

Preparing their dilTficult part. 

"St. Peters!" how shall I describe it, 

Or give a faint idea to you. 
Of its great beauty and grandeur? — 

This is a task for the few. 
I can tell of its wonderful altar. 

Inlaid with pearl of great price. 
And so exquisitely fashioned, 

As to look like embroidery, nice ; — 

Then the cherubims and the infants. 

Made of marble so white, 
And looking like beautiful angels. 

Just from the realms of light; 
And the magnificent paintings 

By Raphael, of many a saint, 
Ah ! he was an artist to follow. 

For he a grand picture could paint. 

38 



This church is the finest in P^urope, 

Or perhaps in the world that appears, 
Its chapels, its frescoes, and art work 

Have cost thousands on thousands for years. 
Much time could be spent in description 

Of this beautiful church built in Rome; 
But on to the end I must hasten, 

Not even describing its dome. 

After seeing this church we took luncheon 

At a cafe by the way, 
And shopped for an hour or two after, 

Buying bright sashes so gay, 
Souvenir spoons and bright jewels, 

Trifies for loved ones at home. 
Knowing well such would be pleasing, 

If brought from that lovely old Rome. 

That evening we went out in parties 

To a most popular square. 
To listen to best band in Roma, 

To see all 'twas lovely and fair. 
Rome that night was most brilliant, 

('Tis often the case of an eve,) 
In the square were set little tables, 

Where things were sold, I believe. 

The band played many selections. 

The soldiers walked to and fro. 
The young sat around with the matrons, 

In seats placed row upon row, 

39 



Or strolled up and down with their lovers, 
Or together ate ices so sweet, 

Most of the maidens were lovel)'. 
All dressed very pretty and neat. 

The next day, being Sunday, w^e rested, 

The weather so hot at mid-day, 
'Twas thought best not far to venture. 

But close to the hotel to stay ; 
Yet some of the '' Pilgrims" then hastened 

To church, on that morning so fair, 
Feeling perhaps ' twas their one chance 

To see devout Romans at prayer. 

Monday, a long day of leisure, 

We all did just as we pleased. 
Going to "St. Peter's" or elsewhere; 

Or, such opportunity seized, 
Of visiting old or new places, 

Shopping for things of the past. 
Seeing new^ sights in old Roma, 

Regretting that day was our last. 

Next day we left Roma for Naples, 

And rode by rail many miles 
Seeing, as we passed through the country, 

Many old ruinous piles. 
Seeing the Acqueducts also, 

Through w^hich the clean waters flow 
Suppl}'ing with moisture the city, 

Which is built some miles below. 



40 



The view all the way was so pleasino", 

The day so delightfully bright, 
We enjoyed very much our long journey, 

Arriving at Naples near night; 
Stopped at a beautiful hotel, 

The '' Hotel Royal" by name, 
Which faces the broad bay of Naples, 

That beautiful bay of wide fame. 

Naples is a very large city, 

With hundreds of thousands of lives 
Massed together in limited quarters. 

Almost like bees in their hives ; 
But the city itself is delightful. 

Washed ever by waves of the bay, 
While "Vesuvius" watches beside it. 

Whose summit is not far away. 

On arriving at Naples that evening. 

Some took carriage and drove through the town, 
To see the old tomb of "Virgel," 

And other old things of renown. 
The night was most perfect wdth moon-light, 

The bay like a large looking-glass, 
With different objects reflected. 

Causing a wierd looking mass. 

The air was both cool and refreshing. 

As it blew from the water so clear, 
The view of the city resplendent, 

With thousands of lights did appear. 

41 



We all took a walk on that evening, 
Going shopping to lovel)' Arcade, 

Buying spoons and other small trifles, 
Returning along the Parade. 

In the morning took steamer at Naples 

Sailing across its wide bay, 
To Sorrento, not many miles distant, 

A very fine town in its way ; 
The sail, from Naples to Sorrento, 

Occupied nearly three hours. 
Some of the passengers sea-sick. 

The weather threatening showers. 

Most of us got off at Sorrento, 

Taking small boats to the land; 
While others went on to "Capri," 

An Island by gentle winds fanned; 
And some thought to see the " Blue Grotto," 

But soon they found out their mistake 
As the guide had told them at starting. 

They could not an entrance make. 

At Sorento we found all so lovely. 

We did not regret in the least, 
That we had forgone the great pleasure 

Of Capri's and Blue Grotto's feast. 
For there the gardens were blooming. 

Which surrounded hotel. 
With every kind of sweet flower. 

With shrub and fruit tree as well. 



42 



Our hotel was named the "Victoria," 

And stood on a bkiff high and free, 
Overlooking the Gulf of Sorrento, 

And Mediterranean sea; 
The house in itself was a picture, 

Our rooms were so pleasant and neat, 
We were delighted to stop there, 

In that most charming retreat. 

After luncheon we all did assemble. 

Took carriage and drove through the town. 
Past beautiful gardens and vineyards. 

Whose vines with rich fruits were bent down; 
The day now brightened with sunshine, 

The air, not too warm or too cold. 
Blew from the mountains so gently. 

While Vesuvius smoked as of old. 

Around the walled drive drove we slowly, 

The loveliest one in the world, 
On one side the mountains above us. 

Had clouds from Vesuvius hurled. 
On the other the sea washed the shore, 

Making soft musical sound; 
Small beggars ran after the carriage, 

For pennies we threw on the ground. 

Twenty miles was the length of the journey 

That we had driven that day. 
Enjoying each moment more fully. 

The beautiful scenes by the w^ay ; 

43 



Ill the eve we returned to the hcnel, 

Next we repau-ed to a hall, 
Where we saw natives dancuig 

In costumes like fancy ball. 

Heard music by band from Sorrento, 

The very best in the town. 
Then songs in Italian were rendered 

By a very comical clown ; 
There were several more variations, 

To vary the sports of the eve. 
Such as small feats by the dancers, 

Which much applause did receive. 

Then a collection was taken. 

Which the festivities closed, 
Then we retired to our chambers, 

Where for some hours we reposed, 
Dreaming perhaps of our dear ones, 

Thousands of miles away, 
Or perhaps of our trip on the morrow. 

To the ruins of Pompeii. 

The following morn we took carriage 

And drove through Sorrento again, 
Seeing new sights by the way- side, 

Sights both for laughter and pain ; 
Passing by many a home- stead, 

Where poverty ruled quite supreme. 
And passing the rich man's dominion, 

W^hose lands were as bright as a dream, 

44 



With beautiful groves of fruit trees, 

Where the green oHve's hung, 
Together with lemons and almonds, 

And grapes to the lattices clung. 
The gardens were full of choice flowers 

Almost of tropical growth. 
While, among all this beauty, were gleaming 

Fountains and statues of worth. 

Near noon we arrived at Pompeii, 

And stopped at a small hotel. 
Where we took luncheon and rested. 

Bought pictures and things there to sell ; 
Then to the ruins proceeded , 

Closely following our guide, 
Walking through fierce burning sunshine, 

Up many a steep hill-side. 

Ah, the ruins ! how shall I describe them. 

As we saw them standing so still ? 
As they have stood for many ages ? 

Why 'twould a small volume fill ! 
We walked through the old " House of Sallust," 

We sat in the bath-room awhile. 
There we had fine pictures taken. 

Sitting on an old ruined pile. 

We listened to guide while he told us. 

Of how Pompaii was destroyed. 
Made notes of the dates and the figures. 

Thus all our time was employed, 

45 



Till getting quite tired of the sameness 
Of story of this house and that. 

We gathered in an old Amphitheatre ; 
And down for a few minutes sat. 

Then a silence fell over the party, 

Our thoughts, going back to the time 
When Pompeii was not a lost ruin. 

But a flourishing town in its prime ; 
Where men worshiped idols of marble, 

Having gods all standing around 
In the streets, and in private dwellings, - 

Some ruins to this day are found. 

After stopping by fountain of Flora, 

Walking through many a street, 
We left the ruins of Pompeii, 

Whose story's too sad to repeat ; 
Left them to time and its changes, 

Left them to crumble away. 
Until in some future ages, 

They'll be in hopeless decay. 

Next the Museum was looked through, 

Where we saw so many things, 
Taken from out the lost ruins. 

Bread, nuts, coffee, and strings. 
Skeletons, bones of lost beings. 

Who died in the great over-throw, 
And were hurried by masses of ashes. 

Hundreds of years ago. 

46 



As we drove from Pompeii near the evening 

We looked at the hills which surround 
That once beautiful prosperous valley, 

Where everything rich could be found, 
At Vesuvius which caused all the trouble, 

And wondered if at some future date, 
There would be such an awful eruption, 

As that wdiich settled Pompeii's fate. 

Some of the young men of the party 

Engaged a few horses and guide. 
To make the ascent of Vesuvius, 

Climbing slowly up on one side, 
Goincr there to look into the crater, 

Where a bright fire can be seen. 
Walking over very hot places. 

Where y^'zo' of the many have been. 

The rest of us saw Herculaneum, 

Which is a lost city also. 
Destroyed the same as Pompeii, 

By Vesuvius' past over- flow ; 
This ruin still lies under ground, 

To which we had to descend, 
With lighted tapers before us, 

And such a weird light as they lend. 

This closed our long day of sight-seeing, 
And we were all glad to sit down 

In carriage, until we reached Naples, 
That lovely old Italian town. 

47 



On the way we had quite a diversion 

All the horses being tired out, 
Some five of them fell in succession, 

Causing a most lively rout. 

But at last we were all landed 

At "Hotel Royal" again, 
After a day most exciting, 

Well mixed with pleasure and pain. 
That night our dreams were quite troubled 

With things we had seen through the day; 
Or Vesuvious in grand eruption. 

Destroying long lost Pompeii. 

Next morn we left Naples for Roma, 

Rode many miles in the train. 
Through a new part of the country. 

Past many fields of ripe grain ; 
The way through the Appenine region 

Was pleasant, but rather too warm. 
Saw fields under good cultivation. 

Forming many a farm. 

At Rome we stopped only for luncheon, 

Then to Florence we came 
Stopped at ''Grand Hotel de Florence," 

Where we soon wrote our name. 
There we found things as they should be, 

Very neat, pleasant and cool. 
There we stopped over Sunday, 

As in the course was the rule. 



48 



Twas ninothirty o'clock In the evening, 

When we were set down at hotel, 
And after a light tea was served us. 

Then to rooms and soon to sleep fell. 
Next morn we arose quite refreshed, 

Took carriage and drove through the town, 
Seeing churches and other fine buildings 

With exteriors moss-grown and brown. 

Plrst the church of "Santa Croce," 

Where Micheal Angelo is laid. 
And where is Dantes' Memorial, — 

He was born m Florence, 'tis said. 
Statues of great men were looked at 

Pictures and sculpturing too. 
Chapels that cost many fortunes, 

To carry successfully through. 

Santa Croce is not yet completed, 

Men were there laying the floor 
Of marbles and lovely mosaics, 

Which will last ages and more. 
These marbles are polished so highly, 

That all is reflected again. 
Even the dome with its pictures, 

Is in them repeated so plain. 

Next gallery full of fine paintings. 

Which represent schools of art; 
The name of the artist on picture, 

In which he has taken a part. 

49 



Next came a room full of statues, 
Adonis, Satyr, Dancing Faun, 

With a hundred of others beside them, 
Seen on that memorable morn. 

Then the King's palace was gone through, 

Where many fine paintings were seen ; 
Furniture of best manufacture, 

With elegant curtains between. 
The Arno was crossed through the palace 

Wliere a gallery on either side 
Was hung with beautiful pictures. 

In which the king takes much pride. 

After seeing so much in the art line. 

We shopped a little for change, 
At restaurant taking our luncheon. 

Where we had fun making change. 
Next we returned to the hotel. 

Where / thought better to stay. 
But the others went sight-seeing after, 

As if it was nothing but play. 



Next, Sunday came to our relief. 

When some of us could rest, 
But many went out just the same. 

Liking constant motion best. 
There being no English church in town, 

Some to other churches strayed ; 
Or took a walk, or drive, around, 

While other people prayed. 

50 



That night we heard the order, 

From our respected guide, 
That we must rise at foiu' o'clock, 

To take an early ride ; — 
About ten hours in length 'tw^ould be 

Reaching Venice in afternoon. 
With many a sigh we said good bye, 

Retiring very soon. 

Next morn at the appointed hour, 

We met in dining-hall, 
Taking breakfast rather hastily. 

All answerinsf to the call 
From our guide, that we w^ere ready, 

And soon w^ere on the way. 
Passing through much lovely country, 

And (fifty) tunnels on that day. 

Many towns w^e passed or entered. 

Where was much to interest, 
Balogna, one of the many, 

And where we did invest 
In sausage, of the same name. 

Which tasted very good, 
With hard-bread of the country. 

Which seemed the staple food. 

At last w^e saw^ fair Venice, 
And soon were sailing round 

In gondola, rowed by gondolier, 
Through grand canal or sound ; 

51 



Soon arrived at end of journey 
And at hotel were set down, 

The name the " Grand et New York," 
One of the best in town. 

V^enice, can I ever describe 

This city of the sea? 
Give an idea of its beauty, 

Or of its community? 
Of what we saw in saiHng round 

Through its many streets? 
Or walking on the little ground 

Where are found some quiet retreats? 

After resting for an hour, 

Took gondola's at the door, 
xA.nd went to see the finest lace, 

Hand made by the poor. 
After buying what we needed. 

And looking through the rooms, 
We proceeded to the churches, 

Where we saw many tombs. 

"Church of the Frair," a fine edifice. 

Was beautiful indeed, 
Decorated by its wealthy patrons, 

Who have done a kindly deed, 
As in all the churches we had seen, 

Was much wealth and labor spent, 
To make them last for ages, — 

On that the mind seemed bent. 



52 



Now the evening hour approached, 

When we back to hotel sailed, 
Seeing interesting objects, 

Before the twilight paled ; 
Seeing " House of Desdemona" 

The " Browning Palace," too. 
Passing under " Bridge of Sighs," 

By many a pleasing view. 

That eve was lovely as a dream, 

With moon so round and full, 
Casting shadows o'er the waters. 

Making picture of the whole 
Lighting up the black gondola's 

With their solitary light. 
Bringing out the lovely city, 

Making all so clear and bright. 

Some found friends in that fair citv, 

Which was a glad surprise 
Making time pass off so quickly. 

As home subjects did arise. 
As question followed question, 

x'\nd answer followed fast, 
The evening dropped into space. 

And good- nights were said at last. 

Next day we went on foot around 
Through Venice's lovely square. 

It being said that in Europe 

There is none that can compare, 

53 



And surel)' 'tis a lovely spot 

Where many cloves are fed; 
Enclosed around on every side, 

By houses white and red. 

"St. Marks" stands at one side, 

A church, so very old, 
Commenced in eighth century. 

Not yet fiinished, we were told, 
Inside 'tis truly splendid, 

With columns set with stone 
Most precious, brought from countries 

Of which little then was known. 

Its bell-tower and its clock-tower. 

Detached from church stand free; 
The clock tower has a queer old face. 

Which has a history; 
Two images of Moors at top, 

With hammers strike the hour. 
The legend runs that a man once hit 

Was knocked dead upon that tower. 

Much more of that church could be said, 

But time nor space admit. 
With regret at not doing it justice, 

I on to the next place flit. 
At a well in a court or square. 

We drank the water pure. 
Drawn by a woman of Venice, 

Whose face looked quite demure. 

54 



The " Doge's Palace" next I think, 

A grand building in its way 
With rooms hung full of paintings, 

Something awful the display. 
One of our " Lord in Hades," 

And one the "Judgment Seat," 
One the largest in the world, 

Whose painting was a feat. 

We passed from room to gallery, 

Hung with tapestries so fine, 
Throuo'h Council Chamber also. 

And through doors red like wine, 
Made from Cedar-tree of " Lebanan," 

From Constantinople brought, 
Which must have cost a figure. 

And required much time and thought. 

That eve we sat on veranda 

And listened to a band 
Stationed in a large gondola. 

Which was gailey manned 
With young men and fair misses. 

Who guitars and banjos played, 
Or sang some lovely songs, 

For the "Pilgrims'" serenade. 

Next morn we left fair Venice, 

And on to Milan came, 
Seeing many lovely villages. 

And towns of ancient fame; 



55 



Saw the old town of "Verona" 

From which Shakespeare wrote his play 
"Two Gentlemen of X^erona," 

And others, by the way. 

Saw the Alps In all their grandeur, 

And a lake of some renown; 
We sped swiftly through the country, 

'Til at last we were set down 
In station, at our journey's end. 

And very glad were we, — 
Took crrriage, and drove quickly 

A Cathedral grand, to see. 

That Cathedral was magnificent 

And is noted far and wide, 
So I'll not go into detail, 

As I've other thino^s beside 
To mention, that we saw while there, 

And yet be very brief, 
As my story's getting lengthy. 

The end will give relief. 

The town Itself is very large, 

Next to Naples in extent, 
Its streets are wide, its shops are fine. 

And on shopping we were bent. 
That eve we went from shop to shop. 

Buying spoons and other things ; 
The Arcade was very attractive, 

Where we bought the Milan rings. 

56 



As we retired that night to rest 

Our last on that bright shore, 
We thought of the seventeen da)'s w'ed spent, 

And wished there had been more; 
But, Hke all the other countries, 

We had from thee to part. 
No matter how much we love thee 

Nor how near it broke the heart. 

Good-bye, most lovely Italy ! 

I know I've fallen short. 
Of giving a good description. 

But bright visions I have brought, 
From your lovely sunny country, 

The fairest in the land. 
Which has offered many pleasures, 

To the little " Ackley Band." 




57 






^^^^s^UCH pfrandeur and such beauty, as that which 
<^^^p met our view, 

As from Milan we traveled and near the Alps we drew. 
On either side, the mountains rose to a tremendous height, 
O'er hung with craigs and boulders, oft obscuring all the light, 



The lofty peaks with snow-capped tips, the valleys that we 

passed. 
The waterfalls and cataracts, flowing down their sides so fast; 
All made a wondrous picture, which we never can forget. 
It shall be ever treasured, and was left with much regret. 

Much beauty and much grandeur, (things 'twere awful too, 

we saw, ) 
As w^e entered many tunnels, frightful places these, to awe; 
Or crossed a bridge so narrow over some dread abyss. 
Where foamed a torrent loudly with seething, boiling hiss. 

We passed many a lake and hamlet of historic note ; 
Homesteads nestled by the way-side, far from the world 

remote. 
Where men live in blissful ignorance of cities and their sin. 
Surrounded by grand nature, whose mountains close them in. 

58 



But I never can describe the scenes we passed through 

on that day 
Or give a faint idea of the beautiful cHsplay; 
Of the ever changing views, so romantic and so grand, 
Which we saw upon the morning that we entered Sw^itzerland. 

Near night we reached " Lucerne," full of beauty is that town, 
Surrounded by the Alps, whose peaks rise white and brown ; 
Where among their sturdy bases many lakes shine bright 

and clear, 
And upon their lovely shores many villages appear. 

We stopped at " Hotel Europe," in this most charming of 

retreats. 
But only for a minute, then were hurrying through the streets. 
Going to see the far famed Lion, hewn in the solid rock, 
In memory of dead Swiss, a brave heroic stock. 



Then to " Glacier Gardens" hastened, there to look around. 
To see the marks of nature, which are in these gardens 

found ; 
Being formed by many glaciers, of past ages slipping down 
From the mountain- side afar, far above that lovely town. 

Next morn we arose quite early, took carriage at the door. 
And proceeded to the landing of the steamer near the shore. 
Took boat across the lovely lake of Lucerne, upon that day, 
Seeing many charming objects all along the way. 

59 



Up Mt. Rigi next we climbed along in observation car, 
Seeing scenery so lovely, which the clouds would often mar. 
As they rolled away below us, obscuring many a view. 
Which was reflected with great splendor, where the sun 
had broken through. 

At top we wandered round an hour, took dinner at hotel; 
Seeing views from top of Rigi, of village and of dell ; 
Looking o'er the tops of mountains, seeing fields so green 

and fair ; 
Thinking there is nothing made by man, that with nature 

can compare. 

Down the other side of Rigi we made the slow descent, 
Seeing many views so charming, as along the way we went; 
Of homestead or of hamlet, nestled close beside a hill ; 
And many caves, and water-falls, and rivers which they fill. 

At foot of that grand mountain we took boat across " Lake 

Zug." 
Where for an hour we halted in the little town of Zug, 
Then on again we traveled, now in a rail-way train. 
To the old town of Zurich, where we halted once again. 

Stopped there for near two hours, and looked around the 

town. 
Which had a pleasing history, and objects of renown. 
Some took cabs and went exploring to see everything they 

could, 
While others rested quietly in the station if they would. 

60 



Again we boarded train and to " Neuhausen" took our way, 
Arriving' at that charming place just at the close of day, 
When the stars were all a-shining, while the dew was on the 

grass, 
Saw the " Falls of the Rhine " illumined, and in beauty they 
surpass. 

We stopped at the " Belle- vue," a fine hotel with fine grounds 
W^hich overlooks the Falls, where the w^ater ceaseless bounds 
Makes sweet music while one wanders thro' the gardens 

down below, 
Where many shrubs and flowers and fruit-trees also grow. 

Next day was like the day before, most beautiful and bright, 
We took a walk around the town, seeing many a pleasant 

sight, 
Returning to our hotel we rested for an hour. 
Then took our way to the station, leaving that delightful 

bower. 



Adieu, fair Switzerland, adieu ! we could no longer stay, 
But must hasten on our journey, be in Germany that day ; 
Where fine views and scenes awaited us and good cheer 

did abound. 
But grandeur and sublimity in Switzerland had been found. 




6i 



^E^H/MMY 



^^7 



TIP 

y/jp"S I write of each new country, 
O-""""^^^ 'Twas our happy lot to see, 
I thnik of Hmi who made them all 



In such great variety 



Some bordered by the ocean, 
And some by mountain chain, 

Others by them both combined, 
To strengthen their domain. 

Still others where the land surrounds, 

With just a border line. 
To protect them from their neighbor, 

Their province thus confine. 

And in many of the countries 

Through which we passed along. 

Men spoke a different language, 
Some as musical as song. 



I noticed too, each Nation 
Was courteous and kind, 

Ever ready to oblige us. 
If a pretext they could find. 



62 



Our ride that da)' was pleasant, 
As the scenery was new ; 

Passed many a lovely village, 
And many a charming view. 

One town or village had a name, 

Which had a funny sound ; 
" Gottmadingen," as they spell it, 

Made a gentle laugh go round. 

And other funny things we saw 

Upon that long, long ride, 
As we passed through eleven tunnels, 

Along the Black Hills' side. 

But we were getting used to tunnels, 

And rather liked the change 
Of passing these dark places, 

Giving sunshine in exchange. 

The "Black Forest" was dark indeed, 

Which was a mass of pine 
Of thickest growth and under-brush, 

Where the sun can never shine. 

The towns through which we passed along 

Looked thriving in their way ; 
The farms seemed quite productive 

Of vegetables and hay. 



63 



No walls nor fence divided them ; 

Each man, his patch of ground 
Had planted with a different grain 

From the others which surround. 

Saw women working in the fields, 
Along with men and boys ; 

Contentment seemed their happy lot, 
Among those rural joys. 

At last we reached our journey's end, 
"Baden Baden" just at night; 

Got off at Central station, — 
Next, our hotel came in sight. 

" Stadt Baden " was the name of it 
And it near the station stands ; 

There saw many soldiers marching. 
And heard music from brass bands. 

That night went round the city, 
Which is a watering place, 

Where people drink of the waters. 
For ills of the human race. 

Next Sunday dawned upon us ■ 
With sunshine bright and clear, 

We went sightseeing on that morning 
To old ruined castle near. 



64 



Then we drank the pure sprlncr- water, 
Of which so much was said ; 

Some went around to churches, 
Some stayed at home and read. 

We saw the baths of Baden, 
Where people, in poor heakh, 

Take baths to make them stronger; 
These are people of much wealth. 

In the eve went to Casino, 

Which had an extensive ground. 

And was lighted up by lanterns 
And gas-jets all around. 

The scene was very brilliant, 
With fire-works in the air ; 

And many thousand people 

Walking through the lovely square. 

We listened to fine music. 

Did a little shopping too, 
And although it was the Sabbath, 

We had all that we could do. 

Next morn we arose quite early. 
And proceeded on our way 

To Heidleberg by rail- way train. 
Where we made a four hours' stay. 



65 



Took carriage to the ruin 

Of the castle of that name ; — 

A very extensive nun, 

Putting those we'd seen to shame. 

After hearing all the story 

Of this room and of that ; 
We went into the cellar, 

There saw the great wine vat. — 

Which held fifty thousand gallons 

Of wine, in days of old, 
When Kingfs and Oueens held revels 

With the Knights and warriors bold. 

The grounds were well examined, 
Which surround these ruins fine; 

We walked through paths of beauty. 
O'er hung with flower and vine; 

After which we took the journey 

On foot, across the city; 
Buying souvenirs of Heidleberg 

And many views so pretty. 

We took luncheon at the station 
Of fruits, cakes, and lager-beer; 

Then on again toward "Worms," 
We rode with usual cheer. 



66 



On the way saw much flat country 

And factories of the best; 
At "Athol" saw a German stork, 

On a chimney taking rest. 

Arrived at Worms at evening, 
And there were soon set down 

At the " Hartman" and the '' Europe," 
Some of the best in town. 

Next morn w^e arose at four o'clock. 

And drove through that queer old town. 

Seeing Martin Luther's monument, 
And his statue, old and brown. 

Then on to " Meyence" traveled, 

Stopped there a little while. 
Seeing many things of interest, 

And many an ancient pile. 

Took steam-boat at the landing. 
Soon had left "Mayence" behind, 

As we sailed adown the river; 
'Tis the Rhine, — I have in mind. 

On either side were lovely views 

Of town, and village too. 
With castles perched upon the hills, 

And some of them quite new. 



67 



And many old and ruined piles, 
Built hundreds of years ago ; 

All having pleasing histories, 
Which I hav'nt space to show. 

Saw fair '' Bingen," heard the story 
Of the " Mouse Tower," on that day. 

And other pretty legends, 
Of old ruins in decay. 

Saw the far famed town of " Bonn," 
Where Beethoven was born ; 

And many, many vineyards. 

From which rich wine is drawn. 

The day was lovely, bright and clear. 

And we from care so free, 
We found the sail most pleasant, 

Oft laughed with child-like glee. 

We took dinner on the steamer. 

Which tasted very good, 
'Leven courses on the bill of fare. 

Of different kinds of food. 

Near night we reached Cologne, 

A very ancient city. 
Stopped at Hotel "Victoria," 

Where all was neat and pretty. 



68 



In the morning, all took carriage 
And drove from place to place, 

Seeing things I can't describe, 
For lack of time and space. 

I only a few can mention, 

And these the very best ; 
First, Church of St. Ursula, 

Where bones of martyrs rest. 

That church was curious Indeed, 

Just crowded full of bone, 
Of many thousand vergins. 

Who had died there at Cologne. 

Next to the orreat Cathedral 
Which was grand, magnificent! 

And, like all the foreign churches 
Great sums had there been spent. 

There saw the tomb of "Three wise men," 

All made of solid gold. 
And set around with precious stones, 
' To tempt the robber bold. 

And there we saw grand paintings 

Of Madonna and of saint. 
By artists of world-wide renown; — 

Grand pictures those to paint. 



69 



And many other things 'twere grand — 
In that old church were seen; 

Not appreciated quite as much, 
As the first in which we'd been. 

Next drove to the Museum, 

Saw Ruben's pictures there 
And those painted by his pupils. 

Of many a scene so fair, 

And scenes too that were awful, 

And many that were grand, 
Of martyrs and fair women. 

Whose destruction had been planned. 

After seeing all those paintings. 

So fine in every way. 
We saw the lovely portrait 

Of Queen Louise that day. 

No one can e'er describe that face. 

So beautiful, refined. 
With figure of repose and grace ; 

All these were there combined. 

After spending all the morning, 

In such a pleasant way. 
We shopped a little after. 

Then to hotel did stray, 



■o 



Next prepared to leave the city. 
And soon were on the traui, 

Flying through much lovely country, 
Past many a field of grain, 

And villages and hamlets, 

Across the country wide. 
We sped along most swiftly. 

On that interesting ride. 

Soon we had left fair Germany, 

And into Belgium ran. 
Where our luggage was examined, 

By an official man. 

O, Germany, fair Germany ! 

With regret we left thy shore, 
For like all the other countries 

We may never see thee more. 




^M^. .^K HIS was the last of all the eight 
^''■^^^^^Of countries we had seen of late, 
And as we entered Brussells town, 
We looked around then up and down. 

To see it was our intent, 
On that our every mind was bent, 
And much we saw upon that night 
But more we saw by next day's light. 

Our hotel, I forget its name, 

But never mind, 'tis all the same. 

It overlooked a busy street, 

Where children, men, and women meet. 

To talk and laugh in joyous glee, 
As if they were from trouble free, 
And yet ' tis work the)' have to do 
Which lasts them 'til the day is through. 

Brussells was pleasant in its way, 
And yet we did not care to stay 
For more than three days of the time. 
Allotted us in foreign clime. 



Next day we drove to public square, 
There heard a story old and rare, 
About the heroes of renown. 
Who fought to settle that old town. 

Heard much about the Belgian Lion, 
And other things we could rely on, 
Saw monuments and statues new. 
And other things of beauty too. 

''Palais of Justice" was gone through 
Largest building the world can show, 
Heard tale of this room and of that. 
Then on the front steps clown we sat. 

And there a man our picture took, 
A picture with a funny look, 
For to laugh some felt inclined, 
Others showed a serious mind. 

Next drove to palace of the King, 
There too was many a lovely thing. 
As those wdiich often we had seen. 
Costly and rich with nothing mean. 

Then to the hotel took our way, 
To rest a little at mid-day. 
In afternoon we shopped at ease. 
If shopping did our fancy sieze, — 



73 



Or spent the time in resting some, 
Or wrote to those we left at home, 
Read over letters we'd received, 
Found all were well and felt relieved. 

That eve we went out with the guide, 
Saw Brussells in its native pride. 
And lovely gardens full of flowers. 
Forming the most delightful bowers. 

Brussells by night was very fine. 
Where many, many lights did shine; 
"Little Paris" so 'tis named, 
And for its cleanliness is famed. 

Next morn some went to Waterloo, 
There the great Monument to view. 
Of which in story all have read. 
And know 'tis for the fallen dead. 

Wirtz picture gallery was seen. 
Unlike the others where we'd been. 
The subjects were so very queer, 
Some awful, others very drear. 

That afternoon we spent at will. 
Walking around or sitting still, 
The evening passed in social way, 
Or made ready for the coming day. 



74 



Next morn we bade our host adieu, 
Shook hands with every one we knew, 
Soon entered trahi, were on the way 
To Antwerp, where our steamer lay. 




/D 




T LAST we were assembled 
^Jv^^^On ship's deck once again ; 
This time it was the " Friesland" 
That was to cross the main. 

With fifteen hundred souls on board, 
We started from the shore, 

From Antwerp sailed at mid-day 
With our party near three score. 

The rain was falling fast that day 
When we started from the land ; 

Our friends we left them cheering 
For the little " Ackley Band." 

As Belgium's shore receded, 
Fair Holland came in view; 

And in looking at its border. 
We had all that w^e could do, 

'Til the steward called to luncheon; 

He knew just what to do. 
For some of us felt hungry. 

And some of us felt blue. 



76 



As night came on the clouds dispersed, 
And we could see the shore 

Where many lights were Hashing, 
Some thousands, less or more. 

Our ship sped swiftly on her way, 
Soon entered the channel deep 

Then the river Pilot left us. 
While we were fast asleep. 

Next morn we arose refreshed, 

Those who felt quite well ; 
There were numbers not at breakfast, 

How many, I'll not tell. 

Of the absent, Neptune had firm hold 
And held them in his grasp ; 

He's a hard old master, I am told. 
By those who sigh and gasp. 

Most of the young folk ran around, 

Talked or laughed so gay; 
Threw "bean-bags" at each other, 

Pronouncing it fine play; 

Read stories climbed to bow-sprit. 

There seeking to explore 
The mysteries of the " Friesland," 

Seeking ever to know more. 



77 



Two days were used in voting 

For the coming President, 
The first day Democratic, — 

Second, RepubHcan went. 

' Twas great fun to hear the speeches 

Made for the Democrat, 
Hear the cheering oft repeated, 

See the waving of the hat. 

And to see their grand procession, 
With their " rooster" held on high, 

With America's flag a'Hoating, 

Singing, the "Sweet Bye and Bye." 

The RepubHcans were not so loud 
In their demonstrations then ; 

But when the votes were counted, 
They had beaten by a ten. 

And so each day was full of fun, 

The weather being mild, 
F'or all of us who felt quite well. 

The time was soon beguiled. 

One day we called a meeting, 

And decided when on shore 
We'd be known as the " Ackley Pilgrims," 

From that time forever- more. 



78 



Each clay did we consult the chart 

To see how far away 
Was our own dear and native land, 

Our own America. 

Sunday we all assembled 
To hear the Gospel read ; 

In the dining-room we gathered, 
And there our prayers we said. 

Take the whole ten days together, 
That we were out at sea, 

I think it was as pleasant. 
As an ocean trip could be. 

But we had one little set-back. 
As we neared our native land, 

Which almost blanched the faces, 
Of the little "Ackley Band." 

The story spread that we must be 
Held days in Quarantine ; 

As we had sailed from Antw^erp 
Where much cholera had been. 

As we listened to the story. 
Told with much interest, 

We thought our luck had left us ; 
Or perhaps 'twas but a test — 



79 



Of our patience and endurance, 
Or at least we hoped 'twas so, 

And that we should land in safety, 
With-out so much ado. 

And no trouble did arise for us. 

Soon we were shaking hands 
With friends who came to meet us 

From home, not foreign lands. 

Thus closed our pleasant journey 

Across the ocean wide. 
Thanks to Him who rules the universe 

And everything beside, 

And thanks to our kind leader 
Who with never tiring zeal. 

Smoothed over all rough places, 
If we- did to him appeal. 

Farewell to all who sailed with us 

Best wishes here I tender. 
To every one I say farewell, 

And now my pen surrender. 







80 



ERRATUM. 

Page 25; Third Stanza, last line, read (now) instead of " out." 
Page 32; Last Stanza, insert word (long) in last line to read 

"Made many long years ago." 
Page 40; Last Stanza, sixth line, word (clear) instead of "clean." 
Page 46; First Stanza, seventh line, word (an) should be omited. 
Page 72; Second Stanza, first line, insert the word (all) to read 

" To see all it was our intent." 
Page 52; Fourth Stanza, last line, use word (seems) instead of 

"seemed." 



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